Whether running for the win or simply reveling in the celebration of one of San Francisco’s oldest traditions, this years Bay to Breakers footrace on May 15th will be packed with costumed runners, freeballing exhibitionists and every species of party animal. With so many costume-centric events taking place in the city year-round, it’s lucky that SF is home to an impressive number of retailers that can help us suit up for the occasion.

To help get you started we’ve put together a list of the best costume, thrift, and vintage shops in town for putting together your B2B look.

SF Party
939 POST STREET
SF Party offers a large selection of packaged costumes for purchase only. While these costumes aren’t the highest quality, they may be a good option for Bay to Breakers who like to party hard without worrying about getting a rental deposit back. SF Party also has a fabulous selection of novelty items and props for adding to your SF costume inventory. Items are available for purchase in-store or online.

Costumes on Haight
735 HAIGHT STREET
From fuzzy animal suits and biblical robes to steampunk and horror attire, Costumes on Haight is one of the most popular costume shops in the city. Almost all of their outfits have the option to rent or purchase, and costume cleaning is included in the rental fee. The store is filled to the brim with masks, wigs, and high-quality costume make-up to fulfill all of your cosplay fantasies.

Piedmont Boutique
1452 HAIGHT STREET
Another Haight Street gem, Piedmont Boutique is the place to go for glam. A brilliant array of costume jewelry, fishnets, lingerie, and feathered boas provides everything you need for dressing up as your favorite drag diva or famous SF eccentric.

RAE Costumes
414 MASON STREET
If you’re a bit too modest for the famous Bay To Breakers “nude chic” but still want something on the sexier side, RAE is the place to go. Their stock includes hundreds of outfits inspired by styles worn by the girls of Rae Model & Talent Agency. In-store stylists will help you put together accessories and props to create the exact look you’re going for. Year-round deals are usually available.

Mission Thrift
2330 MISSION STREET
Mission Thrift is packed wall to wall with affordable second-hand pieces that serve wacky retro and period outfits well. Crafty Bay to Breakers will find plenty of fun items to up-cycle into a one-of-a-kind costumes or trim down into tiny runner’s crop-tops and short-shorts. Be prepared to be here a while. The selection and layout is a bit overwhelming, but the effort is well rewarded.

Retro Fit
910 VALENCIA STREET
Tutus, wigs, and bargain-box finds makes this little shop a great spot for piecing together a unique costume on a budget. Retro Fit Vintage has a fantastic selection of men and women’s vintage pieces that you’ll find an excuse to wear over and over again.

Fantasy Clothing Co.
1275 FOLSOM STREET
This old-school costume shop has a long list of singles and couples costumes for rent at decent prices, as well as one-of-a-kind and vintage pieces for purchase. Although you might want to save thos for a less messy affair. A massive selection of costume jewelry plus patient and helpful staff make this place a Bay to Breakers favorite.

One Stop Party Shop
1600 CHURCH STREET
Tucked in a tiny corner on a residential Noe Valley street, One Stop Party Shop has a surprisingly large inventory. They specialize in family-friendly party supplies and are an ideal spot for finding coordinating costumes for the whole brood.